How to Watch 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi': Midnight Screenings, When to Arrive and More

'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' reactions are in
Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” “I almost had to think of Luke as another character,” Hamill said in a press-junket video. “He’s Jake Skywalker. He’s not my Luke Skywalker.” Lucasfilm/Disney

The day Star Wars fans have been waiting two years for is finally here: The Last Jedi hits theaters Thursday night. While it's an exciting night for rebels everywhere, it can also be a stressful one. So in the interest of keeping the peace in the galaxy, here are a few tips on how to have the best Last Jedi viewing experience possible.

How to see the show on Thursday

Officially, Star Wars: The Last Jedi opens Friday, December 15. But for fans who want to be among the first to see it, "midnight" screenings are happening all across the country. ("Midnight" is a theoretical term—most screenings actually begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, a trick studios figured out could make them more money back in 2013.)

Expect these showings to sell out, if they aren't already. Tickets for The Last Jedi went on sale in October, so it may be hard to hit a Thursday screening last minute. You can see what's still available by typing your zip code into Fandango. Ticket prices vary, and buyers and many theaters have the option of a regular or 3D showing. If you do find tickets online, buy them ASAP! Trust us, the service fee is worth it for this one.

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Rey greets Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi.' Walt Disney Studios

Many movie theaters these days also have reserved seating—AMC, one of the largest theater chains in the U.S., recently went reserved for all its Manhattan locations. So for those buying last minute at a reserved seating theater, the pickings may be slim. Prepare for two and a half hours of neck-craning in the front row.

When to arrive for your screening

The good news for those with the assigned seats? There's no need to stress about arriving hours early to the theater. But you'll probably still want to arrive at least 30 minutes before your showtime if you want time to grab popcorn—the concession line will likely still be a nightmare.

If you didn't get the option to reserve your seat, it's a little more complicated. Check with your local theater to see if they have rules or recommendations on how early to arrive—some might not let you inside before a certain time. But plan on arriving a minimum of one hour early to claim your spot in line. Otherwise, you might have to sit by yourself with a less-than-ideal view.

What to wear

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'Star Wars' cosplayers at Comic-Con International 2016 in San Diego. Matt Cowan/Getty Images

Opening night screenings are a great opportunity to bust out that Star Wars costume that's only otherwise socially acceptable on Halloween. Be warned though: Stay away from any real weapons or even realistic fake guns. Sadly, shootings at theaters and concerts have prompted theaters like AMC to discourage fans from bringing blasters or Darth Vader masks. (Lightsabers are fine.) Emails about this policy were sent out to anyone who purchased an AMC Star Wars ticket—as this reporter did—on Wednesday.

What to expect

Here's the good news: Star Wars: The Last Jedi is getting overwhelmingly positive reviews. It has the highest "top critic" Rotten Tomatoes score of any of the Star Wars films. And even if it's not your favorite, nothing beats an opening night screening packed with enthusiastic nerds. So expect to have a ton of fun!

May the Force be with you tonight, young (and old) Star Wars viewers.

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer


Anna is a Newsweek culture writer based in New York City. Previously she was a Film/TV writer at Elite Daily and an ... Read more

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